2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design
Volvo's vision for safety is aggressive, no deaths or serious injuries with 2020 model years for Volvo vehicles. Is it possible? The 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design seems to be moving in that direction.
Our Spotlight is on the 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design, the mid trim of three available here in Canada, with the only engine choice and All-Wheel Drive. This 247 horsepower turbocharged inline 4 motor produces an segment-average amount of power, and with a 7.9L/100km fuel economy on our test loop isn't half bad in that regard. We cover everything you need to know if you're shopping for a subcompact luxury crossover.
Our full tour and review of the XC40 R-Design covers the exterior features such as front and rear parking sensors, adaptive LED headlights with LED fog lights, heated windshield wipers, IntelliSafe safety technology, power folding mirrors, power opening rear lift gate, and much more. We also go over the design elements of the XC40 and R-Design trim.
Inside we talk about the charcoal leather seating with nubuck inserts, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, dual zone automatic climate control, Volvo's Sensus infotainment system, the 360º camera, panoramic sunroof, power folding rear seats, and the overall interior space. We also discuss some of the issues we had with this vehicle during our week with it.
We take the Volvo XC40 R-Design on a winter road test with it's AWD system and Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 winter tires. We talk about the driving dynamics of the R-Design and what we like and dislike about the overall driving experience. We also test out the capabilities of the T5 engine and 8 speed automatic transmission.
We wrap up our full episode of TestDrive Spotlight on the 2019 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD R-Design with our fuel economy testing results, what we liked about this subcompact crossover, and what can be addressed for future model years.